This week, the Orthodox Jewish community lost a powerful voice with the passing of Rabbi Sheftel Neuberger z”l after a lengthy illness. I, like many of my colleagues and previous Agudah leaders, attended Ner Israel Rabbinical College, where Rabbi Neuberger, like his father before him, served as president. Rabbi Neuberger was widely respected in the yeshiva and political worlds for his wisdom, knowledge, and leadership.
Looking back at some of the emails he sent me over the years, they included themes which personified the Neubergers. The need for unity, words of encouragement at times when I needed it most, and political strategies to help the Jewish community and its institutions. In one email, he offered to fly across the country to attend a dinner in my honor. For Agudath Israel of Florida’s 20th anniversary dinner, Rabbi Neuberger was a featured speaker, honoring the work of Ner Israel alumnus Rabbi Moshe Matz. He was proud of the accomplishments of alumni and would regularly attend their family and professional celebrations. He will be missed by all who were privileged to know him and learn from his example. We extend condolences to the entire Neuberger family including Rabbi Boruch Neuberger who serves on our Agudah of Maryland board.